After the Spanish-American War in
1898, many Filipinos immigrated to New
York City, mostly as students, enrolling
at local institutions like Columbia
University and New York University. Some
arrived via Ellis Island as early as 1915, while Filipino military servicemen and Navy seafarers settled in New York after both World Wars I and II. After the Asian Immigration Act of 1965, many Filipinos came as professionals (e.g., nurses, physicians, and engineers) and formed settlements in various ethnic enclaves throughout the five boroughs of New York. Over the years, Filipinos have contributed significantly to New York arts and culture through Broadway theater, fashion, music, film, comedy, hip-hop, poetry, and dance. Filipino New Yorkers have also been successful entrepreneurs, corporate executives, community leaders, and politicians, and some, sadly, were victims of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks.

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The mission of the Filipino American
National Historical Society shall be to promote understanding,
education, enlightenment, appreciation and enrichment through
the identification, gathering, preservation and dissemination
of the history and culture of Filipino Americans in the
United States.

Perhaps you sang a lovely song
Or sat quietly in a chair.
Perhaps you sent a funeral spray,
If so, we saw it there.
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words,
As any friend could say.
Perhaps you were not there at all,
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console out hearts,
We thank you so much whatever the part.